Chapter 19

The next week flew by for both Melissa and Jon, but they did manage to stay in contact through it all. Jon had called Melissa on Saturday night to make sure she had gotten home ok, and they ended up talking for nearly an hour. They talked about what Melissa did in her last couple of days down the shore, and about how Jon was adjusting to Stephanie moving in with him. The next day Melissa called to say hi, and they ended up talking for nearly another hour, this time about the little things. How she had a bunch of paperwork to catch up on, how Jon was meeting with the Mayor of Newark later in the week to follow up on the plans for the new apartment buildings. This was what he had missed so much since the divorce, being able to talk about the details of his life, being able to share the less glamorous side of him, and she was more than willing to listen. They had talked Monday and Tuesday in the same capacity, both of them silently content in where their relationship, whatever it may be, was heading.

Jon was pleased with the progress and easy transition that was happening with his daughter. They were still trying to feel each other out, looking for the perfect balance, but overall it was going well. It also helped tremendously to have Amalia there to give them both a reality check. Things were settling down nicely, and they had reached a near perfect routine by the time school started on Tuesday. Jon had even called Richie in LA to tell him how everything was falling into place; it almost seemed too good to be true.

Melissa had enjoyed her last couple of days at the beach, and Richie even insisted treating the three of them to dinner one night. Richie had said it was to thank her for making Jon so happy, but Melissa thought that he had ulterior motives as he flirted shamelessly with Angela throughout the meal. No matter what his motives were, she was happy to know that she made Jon happy, because he had the identical effect on her. It was hard for her to return to reality Saturday night, but was relieved when he called her, ensuring that it hadn’t all been a dream. Everything seemed to be falling into place perfectly for her, and she couldn’t help but smile all day. She kept telling herself to ignore her self doubt, good things can happen, and they are. Tuesday night she even called Angela and talked to her, feeling like a 13-year-old girl all over again.

“Angela, there’s just something about him. I don’t know what it is, and its not because of who he is either. I just feel comfortable with him. I know that sounds stupid because we haven’t even known each other a month, but there’s something familiar about him. Never in all my life have I felt so at home with some one so quickly, not even you and Tommy. He accepted me for who I am, and all my baggage. It’s like we have this connection. I never thought I could ever feel this way about someone. I’ve always been so quick to guard myself and not let people in, but there’s something different about him that makes me trust him. And the way we talk to each other. I tell him stupid little things, like while I was on the phone with him I couldn’t find my charger for my computer and I told him that. And he’s so quick to tell me about what he’s going through with his daughter. And he’s told me about the boys too, like I can picture their personalities. I think I’m falling for him, god I know that’s crazy. ”

And as always Angela’s support, even if it was skeptical, was there, as it had been since college. They made plans to drive into work together the next morning, and Melissa, like so many times in the past week, couldn’t wipe the smile off of her face.

Melissa woke up at 8:00 the next morning, an hour and a half before she had to leave. She couldn’t help it, she was too excited. She got up and made her way to the shower, hoping the warm water would bring her brain back to the logical manner it usually functioned at. Melissa emerged from the shower, still feeling giddy and turned to her closet. It took her 25 minutes to decide on her favorite pair of jeans, and her well-worn Barber jersey. It was theme day at work and this week they decided on retired football jerseys, and it couldn’t have come on a better day as one of Jon’s first loves was football. Melissa dressed, and made her way back to the bathroom. She took the towel from her hair, and gave it a good shake. I think we’ll go with the natural look today, she thought. She let her hair go, and applied minimal makeup. A little powder and blush, a quick swish of the mascara wand, a hint of gloss and she was ready to go. As she left her bedroom, she heard a knock at the front door. Eagerly she answered it and found Angela excited and ready for the day.

“Morning! Come on in I was just getting ready for breakfast, we’ve still got about a half hour,” Melissa said holding the door open.

“Morning Mel. What are you making,” Angela asked walking to the kitchenette.

“Bagels, pretty gourmet, huh. Is that one of Tommy’s old jerseys,” Melissa asked gesturing to the football jersey that hung to her knees.

“Yup, I didn’t have any old ones. And I would’ve been here sooner except I was getting quite a lecture of who Phil Simms is. It was stupid that I asked, you’d think by now I’d know better. He takes his football so seriously; I swear he took it as a personal attack that I didn’t know who Simms was. Seriously,” Angela answered as she took out the butter and cream cheese before making herself a cup of coffee.

“Hey, don’t look at me. You should know better after living with me for how long. Football is like a religion to some, and Tommy happens to be one,” Melissa said grabbing the bagels out of the toaster and put them onto plates.

Angela went to work putting cream cheese on hers while Melissa buttered hers up. “Hey Mel, I’m really happy for you, you know that. I mean it’s a dream come true to be with Jon, but did you think that this is happening too fast. I mean hon you’re pretty smitten after only two weeks, and you don’t even know how he feels.”

Melissa resisted the urge to get angry. Ordinarily she probably would’ve defended herself until she was blue, but how could she when in the back of her mind she had been thinking the same thing? She was almost secretly relieved that Angela had brought it up, because she would never voice her own concerns, about this anyway. “Ang, I dunno. All I know is that in my 28 years I’ve never felt this way about anyone, the way I do about him. And the way I feel with him, and the way he makes me feel. This is something I can’t screw up. I thought that it was just some wonderfully romantic rendezvous down the shore, and because of where it was it was something magical. But then we came home, back to everyday life, and that spark is still there. I didn’t believe that this was real until we came back. I don’t know how he feels and I can’t influence that, and I wouldn’t want to manipulate him. All I know is we’ve got a good thing and I don’t want that to change.”

“Well as long as you know that either this could end badly, because you’re so invested, or it is something truly magical. That’s all, I just wanted to make sure. I’ve gotta look out for my Mel. But don’t worry, I saw how he was looking at you he looks just as infatuated as you do. And talking about his kids, oi!”

Melissa couldn’t help but smile. So it’s not just me that sees the way he looks at me. “Ok enough of this for now. Let me get my stuff for work, and then we’re outta here,” Melissa said chewing her last piece of bagel, and heading for her office.

“Mel, you want coffee to go,” Angela asked as Melissa left the room.

“Oh, yes please. If you get that, we can go as soon as I grab this stuff,” Melissa called from her office grabbing her laptop, and a bunch of paperwork she had tried to finish the night before. Melissa emerged with her laptop case and her messenger. “Ok, ready?”

“Absolutely. Do you mind driving? Tommy dropped me off because he needs my car to get the oil changed on the truck,” Angela asked grabbing two travel mugs.

“No problem. Why does it seem that between the three of us, we’re always down a car. Let me just find my cell and were outta here,” Melissa answered checking the counter for her cell phone.

As if on cue she heard Jon’s familiar voice start, “Until I'm 6 feet under, Baby I don't need a bed, Gonna live while I'm alive, I'll sleep when I'm dead, Till they roll me over, And lay my bones to rest, Gonna live while I'm alive, I'll sleep when I'm dead” as her phone received a text message.

“Angela do you hear where that’s coming from? Is it the kitchen?” Melissa asked trying to follow the sound of the music.

“I’ve got it Melissa, it was in your purse,” Angela said grabbing the phone as it stopped ringing. “It’s from Jon.”

Melissa nearly squealed with excitement. “Give me!” She said taking the phone from Angela. She took a deep breath before hitting ‘ok’ to read her message.

Melissa cant wait to see you later...Jon

*****

Jon couldn’t help but smile all morning as he got ready and ate breakfast with his daughter. As he munched on some cereal he let his mind wander. Things were going better than he could have expected. He couldn’t ask for things to be going better with Steph, he hadn’t seen her this happy since before he was home from the tour. Their lives and schedules had meshed into one, and things were going smoothly. She had started school yesterday, and seemed to like it, as much as any high school sophomore liked school. But he could tell there was something different about her. He loved being able to have dinner with someone every night, and not being the only person in the house after Amalia and Cara had left for the day.

But just as exciting for Jon was his new relationship with Melissa. He was so happy to be with someone who didn’t judge everything he did, and someone who he enjoyed sharing his time with. After he had talked to Melissa at length on Saturday night he had called Richie, who promptly teased him for getting all mushy. But Jon knew that if he was gonna make this work Richie was the one to talk to about this. Richie knew what it was like to be with someone for so long, and then have feelings about someone else. He had thought about calling Dave because he and his ex-wife were together since high school, but Richie had met Melissa. And he saw first hand how happy she made him. Hell Jon had even talked about introducing his kids to her. He quickly shot down introducing her to his boys because they were still upset with him for letting Steph move in by herself.

Richie had been quick to give him the reality check that he always provided. “Johnny are you sure you not just doing this to get back at Dot for sleeping with someone new. Maybe if you were with someone younger it would make her even madder, right?”

“God Rich I didn’t even think of that. I think she just came into my life when I needed someone to lean on, and it just works.”

“And I’m happy you’re happy, even though I don’t know how you could be so happy with her if you haven’t gotten her into bed yet, but that’s just me. But how long have you known her to be all starry-eyed about her?”

“First you’re such a pig sometimes,” Jon replied shaking his head.

“Aw, thanks man,” Richie said laughing.

“And it’s one of those things that I just know is right for me right now. I don’t know where we’re gonna be in a year, or at Christmas for that matter. But right now we’re in a good place where I can’t stop thinking about her from the first time I saw her-“

“Damn Johnny, you’ve been bit hard by the love bug,” Richie had answered him.

Jon was quickly snapped back to reality when the kitchen phone rang, and Amalia answered it.

“Bongiovi residence…Yes ma’am hold on one moment, let me see if he is available to take your phone call,” Amalia took the phone with her and walked over to the table where Jon and Steph were sitting. “It’s your ex-wife Mr. Jon. She’s insisting to speak with you.”

Shit, Jon thought, there goes my perfect morning. “Thanks Amalia, Steph go get ready we have to leave in 10 minutes,” he said giving her a quick kiss on the forehead before heading for the patio door. If this was gonna get ugly he didn’t need his daughter hearing, she was so protective of him and he didn’t want anything else to drive in between their already mangled relationship.

He stepped out into the cool September air and reached for a cigarette from the pack he had grabbed on his way out. “Morning Dot, what can I do for you?” He asked lighting his cigarette and breathing in the familiar nicotine.

“I just wanted to let you know that I don’t think that its fair that Stephanie should be kept from her brothers. So I talked it over with the boys and we think that we should have weekly meals, the five of us, as a family. Wednesdays work best with the boy’s schedules, so I’ll be picking her up from school today and you can pick her up around 8 or 9 o’clock, so I’ll see you then,” Dot stated simply.

“Wait, Dorothea. You can’t just dictate her life, or mine. Do you even care what she wants? And did you call to talk to me so that I would be the bad guy here. Don’t think I cant see through you Dorothea, I’ve known you too long for those games to work,” Jon said fuming at his ex-wife’s behavior.

“Oh, ok Jon. I see you think that your children should not only be separated between your favorite little princess and the little leftovers but you also think that they shouldn’t spend anytime together, even though they’ve never been apart.”

God did she have a way of guilting him. “You know that is so unfair, we wouldn’t even be in this situation if it weren’t for you. I love all my children the same, how could you suggest that I don’t. But fine Dorothea, I’ll talk to her, but the only person you’re gonna end up hurting is her. I have to go or she’ll be late for school,” Jon said hanging up the phone before she had a chance to respond.

He finished his cigarette and went inside to tell his daughter. She took it in stride, and smiled, “That’s ok Daddy, she’s just jealous. I’m gonna go get my bag.”

As his daughter left him alone with his thoughts his mind started to spin. How is it that she can see the obvious that’s right in front of me? She’s one amazing young woman. A young woman, I can’t believe she’s 15, and not my little 5 year old baby girl. And now what am I gonna do tonight back in this big house all by myself. I don’t even know what time I’ll get home from the hospital. Wait, that’s it. I’ll go out to dinner with Melissa afterwards. Dot thought she could hurt me and Steph, but she ended up making my night better and Steph can see through her ploys. .

“Dad, come one I’m gonna be late. What car are we taking?” Steph called from the hall snapping him back to focus.

“The Beamer’s blocking everything else in. I’ve got the keys,” Jon said smiling following his daughter to the door.

Chapter 18

“Is this ok here?” Jon asked stopping a couple of feet down the beach from the house.

“Sure this looks fine,” Melissa said and took a seat. “Before I start I need you to promise me that you’ll just let me get out what I need, ok?”

“Absolutely, this is your story to tell,” Jon said turning in the sand to face her.

“Thank you. First I have to say that I meant what I said last night, about how your music has healed me. You’ve even saved my life more than once, I don’t know if you’ll ever know to what extent. And that’s why I even thought about going out with you at all, because I wanted to see if Jon the man was as amazing as I had made him out to be. And you exceeded every expectation.

“For this to all make sense I should start from the beginning. I think I told you last night, I have an older sister Michelle. We were never close growing up, but that was ok. We banded together when we needed to, that was enough for me. When I was really little my parents were still married but my dad took off when I was four or maybe five. I don’t remember him, only what my sister would tell me. She said he would hit my mom, my mom never talked about him. I think part of her was always hurt because of how he treated her. He never hurt my sister or me, and I was so little I didn’t know what was going on. But that initial strong male figure was never in my life. This is gonna sound really stupid, I know. But when you guys really made it big around Slippery I guess, my mom totally fell for you guys. And all of you were kinda like how my mom told me or showed me that there were good men, somewhere. Your music, even though it went over my head as a seven year old, kinda showed me that not everyone, well every man, was a bad guy. My mamma raised me on your music as you could tell by all the tours that we went on together. That I think was the first time that you really kinda changed my life.

“Then in high school I started dating this guy, Joe. I thought he was a million percent the love of my life. We even went to NYU together. He was my first everything, my first love, my first kiss, the first guy I slept with. But my mom warned me to be careful, guard my hear a little and he would eventually break my heart. He was cheating on me, and I fell to pieces. We were together over three years, which from high school is like eternal. It was the summer before my sophomore year and I was still hurting when classes started again. And this sounds cheesy but your music and love songs gave me hope, ya know that I’ll find love again. I was only 19 after all. And I was home for the summer and my mamma said, ‘Mel, not all men are cheating pigs. Jon’s been with his wife since high school and he’s in his 30’s now. You’ll find your special guy.’

“But I should go back to my first day that I moved into college. I was dorming in SoHo, for the first time I wasn’t at home. And back then I had a really strong personality, I’ve mellowed out since then. Things were my way or no way. And as I’m sure you’ve noticed Angela is still the same way. We butted heads at first, I almost moved home. It was a horrible first week. I remember I was in our room by myself writing a paper one afternoon when Angela was in class. I had the New Jersey CD blaring from my CD player. I heard her come in and slam the door. I thought she was gonna yell at the music. ‘What do you think you’re listening to?’ she asked. I told her ‘I’m listening to Bon Jovi if you don’t like it you can leave. Jon’s not going off.’ And that was it we clicked. Me and Angela probably wouldn’t have lasted another two days if it wasn’t for that CD. And the Crush tour we took off together to as many shows as we could.

“But back to sophomore year, shortly after I broke up with Joe, I started dating another guy in the fall, Ben. We were together for about 5 months or so before we split. In my life until that time, it was the absolute worst time. That was right before Crush came out and I was so drawn to “Its my life”. It was an anthem of sort for me. For me it was a song about taking control of my life, and hanging in there. It helped me start to heal, but I kinda wrote off dating, and focused on my education. I had Tommy and Angela and the three of us were all we needed.” Tears started to flow down her cheeks as she recalled these memories. She didn’t look at Jon; she was in another place looking out into the ocean as she spoke.

“I was a pre-law and business major. I was set to graduate with honors in May of 2001. May 7^th. My mom was so proud that I was graduating. My sister went to college, but more as a thing to do after high school so she could meet someone and get married. Which she eventually did, she was engaged to be married that October. But everything started March of that year. I’m sorry you’re probably so confused,” Melissa finally turned to look at him. There was something in his eyes that was comforting.

He reached over and wiped a tear away, but he immediately pulled back, “I’m sorry.” The last thing he wanted to do was overstep a boundary.

“No, no its ok. I’ve never told anyone all this before. I think Angela and Tommy are the only people who really know everything, and they lived through it all. Am I totally confusing you?”

“No, I think I’ve got it. You really don’t have to tell me all this. I can see it’s hard,” Jon said. There was something so alive about her that made it even harder to see her this upset.

There’s something more, Jon thought, something she’s not telling me. It’s not my business to pry. I wonder if she knows that this is only making her all the more irresistible. The pain she’s felt, and the strength she must have. This is one I’m not letting get away.

“No, I’ve started I may as well finish what I started,” she stopped and took a deep breath. He leaned over again and wiped the tears from her face. It felt surprisingly comforting for him to touch her like that in such a gentle way.

“Now like I said, it all started in March of my senior year. I had a lot of schoolwork I was doing. I had two 70 page senior theses to write, a 30-page paper for the honors program, and a couple of classes to finish up. I was spending a majority of my life in the library, like close to 25 hours a week. It was therapeutic for me to be busy with school, so I didn’t mind. My mom got sick towards the end of March; she had this chest cold that she couldn’t shake. It would get better for a week or so and then come back. I never went out to take care of her because I was so busy and she assured me she was fine. That is my biggest regret, not going out to be with her. It was about the second week of April that my mom went into the hospital, and I was less than a month from graduating. My sister was busy planning her wedding. I went out to be with her as much as I could, I wish it was more. She ended up dying of pneumonia a week before I graduated. She was my one person that had always been there for me, the only person really. By some miracle I got through that week, and I graduated. It was all bittersweet because she wasn’t there to see me do it.

“At that time you were on tour, it was One Wild Night. My mom had gotten me tickets for graduation. You were playing in DC six days after. That night may have been harder than the funeral was. It was the first show I went to that my mom didn’t go to. That’s when it really hit me. Angela offered to go down with me, but I told her I’d be fine. I got to my seat about 20 minutes before you went on, I remember standing when the lights went out. But that was really it, I don’t remember what you started with but it sent me over an edge. I was on the floor like 5 rows back, but I just sat down and sobbed for a good three hours, and by the time the lights came back on I felt slightly better. I sat there grieving in the midst of 20,000 people.” Melissa felt his hand on her cheek again, but didn’t turn to look at him.

“My sister went crazy over her wedding, refusing to grieve and shut me out in the process. That summer Angela came and lived with me in my mom’s house. In the fall I started school again, to get my law degree back at NYU, and Angela started working as a nurse at Hackensack. I sold the house around the same time and Angela moved into what is my apartment now, and I got a place in the city. Michelle got married in October and left for Seattle when she got back from her honeymoon. I think that was a turning point for me. My entire family was gone, and all I had were my two friends, and I accepted that. I had been hurt so much I refused to open my inner circle any further. I became career driven and that got me through the next four years of school. In 2004 I graduated and began working at a law firm in the city, and my niece was born around the same time. I soon figured out that I hated my career, I was a divorce lawyer. It was all such petty things, it seemed meaningless to me.

“I quit my job that October. It was hard because in my mind I was throwing away what my mom had worked so hard to pay for. It was the last thing she gave me. That’s when I moved in with Angela, and basically went on tour with you. I think it was something like over 30 shows. I needed to get my head on and figure out what I was going to do with my life, as I slowly drained my bank account. You guys were in Europe for a month or so and that’s when I decided that while I’d love to, I couldn’t do this forever. I had been volunteering at the hospital with Angela to give me something to do, and they offered me a job. It was basically a paper-pushing job because of my business degree. But I needed something so I took it so long as I didn’t have to start until after the tour was over.

“Everything was soon starting to fit into place. I had a job, and I loved the kind of work I was doing. I finally felt like I was doing something that was making a difference in someone’s life. I wanted to work more with the kids, so I went to night school for about a year, to get my certification to interact with the children professionally.”

She finally turned to look at him. “That is basically the story of Melissa Blake. I’ve been through a lot, and I come with some baggage, but it’s the honest truth. If I’m gonna get involved in something that’s how I do it. And if you think this is too much for you, than thank you for at least letting me explain myself. I think last night I just scared myself for letting myself feel so comfortable with you, so soon.”

His blue eyes looked back at her full of warmth and understanding. “Thank you for feeling that you could trust me. And while we’re being honest I think it’s my turn to disclose.”

Melissa looked deep into his eyes, and she saw some hurt creep into them. “You talk about baggage, but I’ve got my own. I’ve got four kids, 15, 13, 6 and 4. I have a huge house that no longer feels like home because my family isn’t there. I have an ex-wife, who is spiteful and possessive. I don’t know what you read or know, but we didn’t end on the perfect terms that have been publicized. It got ugly; she was actually seeing someone while I was on the HAND tour. Our marriage was finished way before that anyway. At least a good year, but we always said we tried for the kids. When she finally gave me the papers, it was a relief to me to be honest. While we were going through the whole process, she got really spiteful trying to make it out that it was my fault, when I never cheated on her. Not even in the end. Don’t get me wrong it wasn’t all perfect, but she held me responsible for everything, which wasn’t fair, it was a 50-50 thing. It was hard when she moved out because we’ve been together since as long as I could remember.

“This summer was tough for me with the tour ending, and four kids going four different ways, trying to get into any sort of schedule was impossible. Especially when Dot didn’t make it easy for me. The truth is I wasn’t the only one having a hard time with the summer. My daughter Stephanie is my oldest. She had a rough time with everything; she was always a daddy’s girl. I could only think about telling you this because you were so honest with me, which is inspiring. She’s actually moving in with me, well today when I get home. So there you have it. I have a teenage daughter that’s more than a bit possessive of me, a controlling and sometimes down right selfish ex-wife, and three boys, talk about baggage,” Jon said with a smile.

“Between the two of us it seems like we’ve covered it all,” Melissa said laughing.

“There it is, that beautiful smile I haven’t seen all morning.” Jon said.

Melissa blushed at the compliment. “So what does this mean? Are we too broken to be together and see where this goes, or is it just enough baggage?”

“Well you know what they say,” Jon said with a twinkle in his eye.

“No, what do they say?”

Jon laughed, and sang, “It's okay to be a little broken, Everybody's broken in this life, It's okay to feel a little broken, Everybody's broken, You’re alright, it’s alright
It’s just life.”

Melissa laughed as he sang. “I’m taking that as a yes?”

“I’m in if you’re in,” Jon said.

“Then I’m in, if you’re in,” Melissa answered.

Jon stood and offered his hand to help her up. “Let’s go tell them the good news. I’m sure they’ll be happy.”

Melissa nodded and asked, “So if you’re going back tonight when am I gonna see you?”

“How about Wednesday, how does around 11:30 or noon sound?” Jon asked.

“Oh, I can’t I’m working,” Melissa answered, “And I have to go in since I took the end of this week off.”

“I was hoping you’d say that. So 11:30 then at the hospital. And if you’re too busy to entertain me, I can’t wait to get back and see the kids.”

“You know you never cease to amaze me,” Melissa said smiling.

“It’s a date then?” Jon asked.

“It’s a date,” Melissa said grabbing his hand, and holding it tight.

Chapter 17

Richie opened the door and smiled at the two women. “Well, well, well. Ladies, it’s nice to finally meet you. Richie,” he said extending his hand. Melissa shook his hand tentatively, the fan part of her slightly in awe.

Angela, on the other hand, shook her head when he offered his hand. “Oh no, mister. I think we know each other a little better than that,” she said, giving him a hug.

After a minute Melissa cleared her throat and Angela stepped back giving Melissa an innocent face, mouthing “what?”

“How very rude of me to leave such beautiful women outside on such a chilly morning. If you don’t mind my informal attire, please come in.” He said, allowing them inside as he held the door open. As the women passed they noticed his pajamas and thought nothing of it, given the early hour. “Ooo, Melissa, my pants. I thought they were a lost cause,” he said, taking them from her hands.

“No, I’m sorry about that-“ she started.

“Not at all my dear. I didn’t really miss them overnight. I probably wouldn’t have even noticed that they were missing until I went to look for them. And here I told Jon that you really didn’t want to go out with him at all; all you really wanted to do was steal my pants.” Richie said laughing.

Melissa gave a nervous laugh. “I didn’t get a chance to wash them. Laundry was one thing I didn’t think to do this morning. But I did do plenty of baking. Here are some brownies, cookies, and some cake. All freshly made,” Melissa said, handing him the bag of treats.

“Oh, Melissa you spoil me! First clothes then food,” he leaned down to give her a kiss on the cheek.

“Hey, I helped too!” Angela said, giving a fake pout.

“Oh, I haven’t even started with you let, don’t you worry that pretty little head of yours,” he said, giving her a wink. “Melissa, what can I help you with this very early morning or are you just here to give me presents? Either way is perfectly fine with me.”

“I was umm actually wondering if I could talk to Jon, but if he’s not up yet I can come back later,” Melissa said hesitantly.

“Nope, he’s up. I think he went to take a shower. Why don’t you ladies have a seat in the kitchen and I’ll go see if he’s out of the shower yet. Melissa, you remember the way, right down the hall. And why don’t you take these with you. Help yourself to whatever.” Richie said handing Angela the bag of food and walking up the stairs.

Melissa and Angela made their way to the kitchen and waited for their return. Angela looked at everything from dishtowels to what kind of bottled water was in the refrigerator. “Oh Ang, don’t do anything stupid,” Melissa said and waited what seemed like an eternity for Jon to come down.

Richie went upstairs and knocked on the guest bedroom door. “Jon man, are you outta the shower?”

“Yeah, what’s up Rich? Doors open,” Jon called. He was still in a towel, but as always cell phone in hand.

“Is everything ok at home?” Richie asked.

“Yeah fine I was just checking on how things were going at the house, you need something?”

“Well, I was sitting drinking my coffee and the doorbell rang. So I answer the door and two of the most smokin’ women are on my doorstep. This gorgeous Italian, with deep brown eyes, and this blonde with a killer body here to give me my pants back. So I of course invite them in, because who am I to leave two women stranded? They come in and give me a bag of food but then the blonde tells me that she’s just here to talk to you. God man, you get all the good ones. Anyway, I don’t think she was too fond of my theory that she only went out with you to steal my clothes, seeing as she returned my clothes-“

“Wait, Melissa? My Melissa’s here? Or are there just two random women in the kitchen?” Jon said, relieved to hear that she had come back.

“Unless you went out with someone else who stole my clothes. And when did she become my Melissa? God, you’ve got it bad,” Richie said laughing.

“Fuck you, man. What did you tell her?”

“I told her to help herself to anything in the kitchen. Should I have specified she was welcome to the edible things only? And then I told her I’d come see if you were out of the shower yet.”

Jon reached around in his bag and came up with a slightly wrinkled Soul shirt, and a pair of sweats. “Give me two minutes and I’ll be down.” Jon said, putting the shirt on.

Richie left him to dress and Jon lost himself in his thoughts. Why did she come back? I’m glad she did. What is it about her that has me going crazy? He looked at his messy reflection in the mirror and shook out his wet hair leaving it messy to match. He walked down the stairs in a hurry and paused a second in the doorway, just watching her in the kitchen, before he walked in. He saw Richie, the charmer that he is, entertaining them. He couldn’t help but smile when she laughed. Boy do I have it bad.

“Melissa, Angela, good to see you two again. This trouble maker here wasn’t giving you too much trouble, was he?” Jon asked.

“Absolutely not,” Angela said laughing.

Jon walked over to the counter where Melissa sat, out of earshot of where Richie and Angela were talking. “Richie said you were here to see me,” he said smiling.

“Yeah, first, I just wanted to apologized for last night,” Melissa started.

“Hey, no worries. You’re ok though? I was pretty worried about you,” Jon said concerned. The look of genuine concern in his blue eyes making her melt in her seat.

“Yes, I’m ok,” Melissa said taking a deep breath, “Look I know you don’t owe me a thing-“

“Except for about $10,000,” Jon said laughing.

Melissa smiled. “Well in that case we can figure out the conversion from minutes to dollars. I totally owe you an explanation about what happened last night.”

“There’s really no need too-“

“Jon, please. I know I don’t have to, but I want to. I owe you that.”

“Ok, if you insist. Why don’t we go outside?” Jon offered.

“Ok, some fresh air will be nice,” Melissa said standing.

“Hey, where are my two favorite lovebirds going?” Richie called from across the kitchen.

“Just outside to talk, we’ll be back,” Jon said. He looked at Melissa who was having an intense but silent conversation with Angela.

“Wait before you go outside take some coffee its cold out there,” he said, grabbing two travel mugs out of the cabinet.

Jon and Melissa walked back over to the counter. Jon went over to help Richie with the hot mugs. “Light and sweet, Melissa?” he asked.

“With cream please, even though I’m not sure I should have anymore for a while,” she said shaking her head.

“Why, how much did you have? Can’t be more than I’ve had. I think this will be my fourth,” Richie challenged.

“This is what Ang, my sixth, seventh maybe,” Melissa said.

“Wow, what have you been up since 3 or something?” Richie joked snapping on the lids. “Have a good time, darling,” he said, handing one to her.

“Thanks, Richie,” she answered, taking the mug and a big sip. “This is really good coffee.” Richie smiled at her and gave her a wink.

“Come on, let’s go before you stroke his ego anymore,” Jon said, laughing.

When they reached the door, Jon opened it and Melissa took one last look at Angela. “Have fun, I’ll be right here waiting,” Angela said encouragingly. And with that Melissa followed Jon out the door and down the steps to the beach.

Chapter 16

When she had gotten back to the house she made a beeline for her bedroom. She didn’t stop to talk to Tommy or Angela. She slammed her bedroom door behind her and took off her dress and bra and threw them against the door. She grabbed a tee shirt from her duffel bag and put it on. She looked at her reflection in the mirror and was disgusted with herself. She threw the bottle of suntan lotion at the mirror, nearly breaking it and let out a scream of frustration. She had taken a perfect evening and ruined it while making a complete fool of herself. She couldn’t look at her reflection anymore and threw herself onto the bed, and she sobbed into her pillow. After a few minutes she heard a knock at the door. When she failed to acknowledge it she heard Tommy call her through the door and open it.

“Mel, sweetie can I come in?” he asked quietly. She didn’t answer, she kept her head in the pillow and continued to allow the tears to flow. Tommy came into the room and sat on the edge of her bed next to her, and rubbed her back trying to calm her down. She couldn’t bring herself to face what was happening. “Mel, I’m worried about you, do you wanna tell me what happened?” Melissa tried to ignore her friend. “Please, look at me at least. You wouldn’t talk to me in the car I just want to make sure you’re all right. He didn’t hurt you did he?”

Melissa picked her head up at this. “Of course not. He was perfect. Better than I could have ever imagined. I just made a fool of myself.” Melissa said as the river of tears flowed down her face. “Tommy I can’t do this now,” she said pulling away from him. She sat up and swung her legs over the side of the bed keeping her back to him, as her breathing quickened.

“Melissa,” Tommy started and put his hand on her shoulder.

She jumped at his touch and walked over to the window. “Tommy, please just leave me alone.” She didn’t look back until she heard him cross the room and the door shut.

She walked back over to the bed, and got in hoping for sleep. All she got was a replay of the night. She laid there, seeing her perfect night turn to disaster over again. She heard the door open around midnight and Angela asked her if she was awake. Melissa didn’t want a confrontation with her friend and pretended to be asleep.

“Mel, I don’t know if you’re asleep or not, but I’m worried about you. I’m not going anywhere. I’m here when you wanna tell me what happened,” Angela said and got into the bed next to her. She was asleep within minutes leaving Melissa with her tears and her thoughts.

Melissa hardly slept that night, and when she did doze off it was only for fifteen minutes at a time, and kept replaying the evening in her head. It was getting close to haunting her. I have to get up and do something, she decided around 3:30. She got out of bed quietly, as so not to wake Angela and headed for the kitchen.

I need something to distract me. She looked manically for something to bake. Finally in the last cabinet she found cake mix. She took it out and checked the ingredients, taking them out as she read them. She started mixing ingredients, calming down as she stirred. When the oven reached the appropriate temperature she put in two cake pans, and set the timer. Needing to keep busy she took out some butter and sugar to make icing. She went to work mixing the combination by hand to get out her frustration. After 40 minutes the oven timer beeped, and brought her back to reality. She walked over to the oven and removed her cake leaving it to cool on the stove. She heard footsteps upstairs, but ignored them and returned to her icing, which surprisingly was becoming the necessary consistency. She heard footsteps on the stairs and moved to retrieve her bag of paper work from the table.

Angela appeared at the doorway. “Melissa what are you doing?” she asked sleepily. “It’s 4:15”

“I’m baking. I couldn’t sleep, so I got up and found cake mix,” Melissa said bringing her bag to the counter. “I’m sorry did I wake you?”

“Melissa, you should have woken me up. You shouldn’t be alone. Will you please talk to me?” Angela said moving towards the coffee pot. “Tommy told me he upset you when he went to talk to you before. And Richie told me that Jon’s worried about you too. Baby talk to me.”

“There’s nothing to talk about Angela. I made an ass out of myself, and I couldn’t sleep. So I came down to keep myself busy. I started with a cake, and now I’ve got paperwork to do.” Melissa said as tears began falling down her cheeks.

Angela walked over to her friend, and wiped a tear away. “Have a seat let me start some coffee and talk to me. You’re a terrible liar.”

Melissa complied and sat at the counter. “Oh Ang, I don’t know what happened. It all happened so fast. I went from zero to sixty.”

“Just so I’m sure, he didn’t do anything right, I mean I haven’t seen you this worked up in a long, long time.”

“God no Angela. It was just the opposite. He was sweet, so sweet, and polite and gentle.” Melissa started and took a mug of coffee from her friend.

“Ok start from the beginning.” Angela said taking a seat next to her.

And so for the next hour or so Melissa recounted every detail of her evening, from dinner to their walk on the beach, to the move and her meltdown, for lack of a better word. As she told her story the tears came and went, she let everything go. The caffeine helped her let it all out. When she had finished she looked at Angela for support.

“Sweetie, I know you’re not gonna believe me but you didn’t do anything wrong.”

“Angela Faith, how could you say that? You didn’t see how I reacted. The look on his face. And what I did to Tommy I couldn’t even look at him,” Melissa said getting up to pour her third cup of coffee.

“Melissa looks at me. Tommy of all people understands, he was just worried about you because he loves you. And Jon called you a couple of times; he’s worried that he did something to upset you. Mel I think he really likes you.”

“Ang, I dunno,” Melissa was interrupted as a timer sounded. “That’s for my cake, wanna help me ice?”

“No matter how many cakes you make isn’t gonna change what happened. You’re gonna have to face this, Mel.” Angela said grabbing her hand.

“I know,” Melissa said reaching for her bowl of icing. “But I don’t know what I’m gonna do, so I need to do some icing.” Angela nodded and Melissa got her two cake pans.

After the cake was finished, a pan of brownies, and three dozen cookies were made, Melissa came to the realization that there was only one thing to do. It was nearly seven thirty, and she had been up for almost four hours. I just want to do it and get it over with. Angela sat at the table reading a magazine, and looked up when she heard Melissa pull another mug from the cabinet.

“What are you doing Mel?”

“I know what I’ve gotta do,” Melissa said pour a new mug of coffee. “And I’ve gotta start by apologizing to Tommy.”

“Mel, that’s not necessary.”

“I know but I shouldn’t have treated him like that. He’s been so good to me. And then I have to go to Jon’s and explain things to him.”

“You’re gonna tell him everything?” Angela asked surprised.

“Not everything just enough. I owe him that much,” Melissa said heading for the stairs.

Melissa said her peace, and was satisfied with Tommy’s reaction. She knew that was nothing compared to what she was going to have to do. She left Tommy’s room and took a shower to clean herself up from her night. She took a pair of Tommy’s sweats and an old tee shirt before making her way downstairs to her friends and the smell of fresh pancakes.

The three friends enjoyed breakfast, forgetting what had happened the previous night. At nine o’clock, Melissa turned to her friends. “Do you think it’s too early? To go over there I mean.”

“You’ve been up long enough, it cant hurt to try right? I’ll drive you over,” Angela offered getting her keys.

“Thanks Angela. Tommy I’ll see you later. I hope your wife makes it back to you,” she said smiling.

“Oh, gee thanks,” he said giving her a kiss on the cheek.

“Lets go before you change your mind,” Angela said holding her purse.

“Ok, lemme take some of this food as a peace offering. I don’t think we can eat it all. And I can’t forget the pants; I promised I wouldn’t steal them,” Melissa said putting together a plate of brownies, cookies, and cake. “Ok, it’s now or never.”

Melissa and Angela headed to the front door and the car in the driveway. They took the short drive in silence. Angela parked the car in the driveway next to a Hummer that wasn’t there the night before. Melissa took a deep breath, and grabbed her bag of goodies. The two women got out of the car and headed up the walk.

At the front door Angela looked Melissa in the eye. “You’re ok. Just be honest, he’s a good guy. And if it takes a while, I’ll just have to be a loyal friend and wait with his roomie,” Angela said smiling.

Melissa shook her head at her friend and rang the doorbell. This is it. What is it that Jon says? Honeys don’t forget to breathe. Melissa Caroline, don’t forget to breathe. Just as her self pep talk ended, the door opened. Breathe.

Chapter 15

Melissa stopped and looked into his blue eyes, almost in disbelief of what she had heard. “You know that may be the sweetest thing anyone has said to me in a very, very long time.” She was nearly beaming and took his hand.

Jon smiled pleased with her reaction and gave her hand a squeeze. “Let’s keep going were almost at our destination.”

“But the restaurant is back that way. What do you have up your sleeve?”

“That’s for me to know and you to find out.”

“You know, I didn’t know what to expect tonight, but I have to tell you that you have absolutely exceeded all of my expectations,” Melissa said with a smile.

“Oh, really?” Jon asked intrigued.

“Yeah, I mean you have been nothing short of a perfect gentleman and a wonderful date.”

“Well thank you very mu-“ Jon was cut off as his phone rang in his pocket. He let go of her hand and checked the number, and saw it was his daughter. Of all times. Talk about my two worlds colliding. “I’m sorry I have to take this it’s my daughter, do you mind?”

“Not at all, I’ll give you some space,” Melissa said and walked down by the water, letting her feet get wet by the waves. The cool water, gave her a reassuring jolt to assure her this was not a dream, and in seconds she was lost in her thoughts.

Jon took a breath, afraid of what he was about to hear and answered the phone. “Hi, Steph.”

“Hi, Dad. I tried calling you at the house, but you didn’t answer. You’re not busy with Uncle Richie are you?” Her voice a little timid on the other end of the phone.

“I didn’t know you had the number down the shore. And you know I’m never too busy for you,” Jon answered and turned to the water. He watched Melissa in the water; her silhouette in the moonlight accentuated each of her beautiful curves.

“Dad are you sure I’m not bothering you?”

“No Steph I’m sure. What’s up?” Jon turned away from the water to keep his mind from wandering to Melissa.

“I just wanted to call and say hi, because I miss you. And I wanted to see if you knew what time you were gonna be back tomorrow so I can be ready. All my stuff is packed already, but just so I have an idea.”

“I miss you too, Stephie. I don’t know what time we’re gonna head back. I think we’re gonna stay here for lunch but leave shortly after that. I should be back up to get you and your stuff late afternoon. Sound good?” Jon asked, trying not to let the guilt get to him.

“Yup that sounds good.” Steph said, her voice picked up a little when he told her he had a plan.

“And Steph I really do appreciate you staying with your mom tonight. I know it hasn’t been easy, but I know it means a lot to her and your brothers that you stayed the night.”

“Dad, I don’t think-“

“Steph, I think I’ve known your mom a little longer. She loves you; she’s just going though something right now, not that that’s an excuse. And tomorrow will be the be the beginning of a new chapter. It’s gonna be ok, baby.”

“Whatever you say Dad,” she said her voice still tentative.

“Hey, Steph I was talking to a friend of mine and they mentioned this soap opera this in Disney World. I forget the name of it. But if you get me some information, why don’t we look into going?” Jon said desperate to hear his daughter’s voice come alive.

“Really Dad?” She said in a near squeal.

“Absolutely, if that’s what you want. Why don’t you look into it tonight, that’ll give you something to distract yourself,” Jon said pleased with the change in his daughter’s tone.

“Dad, you’re the best! I’m gonna look right now. I’ll talk to you in the morning Dad. I love you.”

“I love you too Steph,” he said and promptly heard the click of her phone.

That could’ve gone a lot worse. Now I just have to focus on having a good night, there’s nothing I can do for her tonight. He turned and looked to Melissa, who was dancing and twirling in the sand. She is absolutely beautiful; it takes an amazing woman to look that good in a dress and in a bikini. God did she look good this afternoon. And I love how comfortable I feel with her; this is one thing that I can’t screw up. He smiled and walked down to meet her.

“I’m sorry about that, but it looks like you’ve been keeping yourself entertained,” Jon said as he got closer.

“No problem, its nice to see how important your kids are. Everything is ok I hope,” Melissa said genuinely concerned.

“Oh, everything’s fine. Steph was just calling to say goodnight.”

“That’s nice. So you said we were almost at our destination before the phone rang,” she said, her curiosity getting the best of her.

“You see that house up there?” Jon asked pointing to a house a couple of houses down the beach.

“The white one? It’s beautiful, it looks familiar,” Melissa said trying to remember where she had seen it.

“It should look familiar it was the house you were camped out in front of all afternoon.” She blushed when he mentioned her stakeout. “It’s Richie’s house. It’s still pretty early, its not even 10 o’clock yet. I don’t think either one of us will hear the end of it, if I bring you back this early. Richie’s out checking out the local bands at a couple of bars tonight, so we’ve got the house to ourselves. If you were interested in a movie or something, or I could take one of his cars and give you a ride back to your house. The choice is yours,” Jon said trying to read her reaction to each offer.

Melissa stood and thought each option before deciding. “Angela probably wouldn’t let me in the house if you tried to drop me off this early, so a movie it is.” He asked if he could hold my hand, it doesn’t get much slower than that. This is no problem, and like Angela said it’s a once in a lifetime thing. Might as well milk it for all I can.

“If your sure, lets get going before it gets too chilly out here,” Jon said smiling as the wind picked up. Maybe I’m not too far out of the whole dating loop.

Melissa took his hand again and gave it a little squeeze, “Lead the way.”

Jon led her up the beach towards Richie’s house. “You know I really missed the beach this summer. I think this is the first time I spent a night down here.”

“I missed it too. I’ve been busy at work, and so have Tommy and Angela. We did take a couple day trips, but there’s nothing like waking up to the sound of the waves. There’s something so peaceful about that.”

“That is true. In all the traveling I’ve done, to me there’s still no better vacation than the beach. And there’s no beach better than the Jersey shore. It’s this one,” Jon said starting up on the stairs to the porch.

“This is like déjà vu, being back here so soon,” Melissa said following Jon up the stairs. “It’s a fantastic view he has.”

“The two of you were very entertaining this afternoon. And I’m not afraid to admit that we sat right up here and watched,” Jon said gesturing to the chairs on the deck, and dropping his shoes.

“We weren’t that bad. We just laid out right in front of you, and when your song came on the radio we may have done a little dancing,” Melissa said shaking her head at her own behavior. “But we were a little disappointed not to see you down on the beach. Now I know next time all we have to do is look up.”

“Or you could always knock on the door. Let me see if I can find the key,” Jon said looking through his keys for the right one. “I swear I don’t know what most of these are for, I don’t even know why I have one to this house.” Jon said trying a couple of keys unsuccessfully.

Melissa leaned against the railing and watched him try a couple of keys. She loved watching him; it wasn’t a bad sight to study. Even through his shirt she could see the definition of his muscles in his chest and arms. As she watched him with the keys, the wind started to pick up to a gusty breeze. She didn’t realize how much skin was showing between her arms and her legs until she started to feel cold. Part of her wanted him to take her in his arms to keep her warm, while the other part warned her to keep her distance. Deciding to side with the later she walked over to the door and said, “Jon, it’s starting to get chilly out, you almost got that door?”

Jon looked at her, feeling foolish for not being able to unlock the simple door. When he saw her arms, he noticed some goose bumps. “I’m sorry, you think I’d be able to open a door. I know which one is for the front door, why don’t we walk around?”

“Wait did you try that one yet?” She asked pointing to the only brass key.

“No, but I can,” he tried the door and it opened. “How did you know that? Have you been stalking so you know which key is which?” Jon joked opening the door and allowing her to pass in front of him.

“No silly. It was the only brass key and the lock was brass,” Melissa said as she found herself in a beautiful kitchen. It was decorated with charming knickknacks, and pictures of food on the walls. “This is beautiful. I would have picked some other decorations for Richie though. This doesn’t exactly scream rocker.”

“Oh that’s because he didn’t decorate it. His mom lives here except during the summer. She’s lived in Jersey all her life, but she can’t stand the heat in the summer, so she stays with her niece somewhere out west I think. Which is perfect because then us boys can use the house while she’s gone.”

“That would definitely explain things,” Melissa said and noticed a pair of black sweatpants on one of the kitchen chairs. “Are these Richie’s?” she asked gesturing to the pants.

“I think so, they’re not mine. He was wearing them before I think,” Jon said, “How did you know they were his and not mine?”

“I dunno, they just looked more like him, than you. Do you think he’ll mind if I borrow them for a little bit, to warm up? I promise I wont steal them or anything.”

“Nah, he’ll never notice. If you want something clean you can raid the two bedrooms, and see what you can find,” Jon offered walking towards the refrigerator.

“Nope, these are just fine,” Melissa said picking up the pants. “Do you mind if I slip them on quick?”

“Not at all, there’s a bathroom down the hall on the left. You ready for some dessert, I can see what Richie’s got in the fridge.”

“Dessert sounds good, I’ll only be a minute,” Melissa said and walked down the hall.

She found the bathroom and shut the door behind her. She looked around at the light pink wallpaper, and pink hand towels. Definitely not what she expected. She opened her purse and found her lipstick to reapply, and her cell phone. She sent a quick text to Angela’s phone; pinch me i must be dreaming…i can confirm that we def were in front of richies house this afternoon… then quickly returned the phone to her purse. She slipped on the sweats, and rolled the waist a couple of times so she wasn’t tripping over them. She looked at herself in the mirror and laughed at the bulge at her waist where the pants were. She grabbed her purse and shoes, and returned to the kitchen. She found Jon with his head in the refrigerator.

“How do I look?” She teased putting her purse and shoes on a barstool.

“Just wonderful, the whole outfit just wasn’t complete without the pants. Put those shoes back on and we’ve got ourselves a true fashionista,” he said with a laugh.

“Oh, Mr. Bon Jovi, your too kind. But I must say if I wasn’t frozen on the porch the pants wouldn’t be necessary,” Melissa said taking a seat on the barstool next to her stuff.

“Touché. We have some fresh berries and some stuff for sundaes, which do you prefer?” Jon said returning to the refrigerator.

“The berries, I don’t think I could eat a whole sundae. Fresh fruit, you two never cease to amaze me!” Melissa said grabbing her bag.

Jon pulled a big bowl of freshly cut berries and walked to the doorway. “Now what fun would we be, if you had it all figured out? To the living room?”

“Sounds good,” Melissa said following him down a hall, through the foyer into the living room with a few large couches. “This place is beautiful.”

“I’d say thanks, but it’s not my house. Shall we see what’s on TV, or go for a movie?”

“A movie, mind if I pick?”

“Not at all, what did u have in mind?”

“Well I was thinking of a certain movie from the 80’s, with a giant, a prince, a Spaniard, a mysterious masked man and Billy Crystal. I’m gonna go put my stuff in the foyer I’ll be right back,” Melissa said turning to the hall.

Jon thought a second, and then called out after her, “As you wish.”

She smiled as she walked down the hall and left her purse on a small table and her shoes by the door. When she returned to Jon he already had “The Princess Bride” in the DVD player and was waiting for her on the couch with one arm over the back.

“You weren’t kidding when you said you didn’t mind chick flicks were you? That’s fantastic,” she said taking a seat next to him.

“I don’t lie darling. And this is more comedic genius,” He said pushing play.

Melissa sat close to him, but far enough away to give herself some space. She curled her legs up next to her and reached for the bowl on the coffee table. “Mmm, these berries are wonderful,” she said biting into a blackberry.

“That you’re gonna have to credit Alexis with. Both of us are pretty clueless in the grocery store.”

“Alexis? I didn’t think he was dating anyone,” Melissa started, but quickly added, “I’m sorry that is absolutely none of my business. I don’t want to sound nosey or anyth-“

“Stop, don’t worry about it, its not a big deal. He is single, for the record, and he seems to have an eye on your very married friend. Alexis is his personal assistant. Now changing the subject before we end up talking about my friend all night. Why did you pick this movie? Is it your favorite?” Jon asked grabbing a couple of berries from the bowl in her lap.

“Not my favorite movie, I doubt you’d have my favorite. I may even be willing to put money on that. Though I am quite surprised to see one of you has this movie.”

“Hey there is nothing wrong with this movie. I think Richie raised Ava on it so he could say it was her movie, but its classic. You were saying.”

“I was saying that while it’s not my favorite, it’s definitely in the top five. I’ve loved it since it first came out I was like six or seven. I wore out so many tapes of it I lost count around four. And I’ve been craving it since Angela mentioned it yesterday,” Melissa said reaching for a strawberry.

“If this isn’t your favorite what is?”

“You really wanna know,” she asked and he nodded curiously, “Well only since you asked. Titanic. I can’t help it I was 17 when it came out, and I couldn’t think of anything more romantic, except maybe for all the dying. But still, you can’t blame a girl, and I only found out about the whole back story with Tico and him a couple years ago.” She felt a little uncomfortable bringing up a failed relationship of one of his friends and band mates on a first date. In the 1990’s while the band was on the road Tico’s wife had an ongoing affair with Leonardo DiCaprio, and rumor had it the band still held a bit of a grudge against the actor.

“You’re right we don’t own that one. Actually, I think my ex did. We got into a big fight around 2000 maybe and she went out and bought a couple copies and left them all over the house. I think the soundtrack too, just because of the history there. She could get pretty spiteful, but why am I talking about her? Yes it is safe to say that no Leo movies would be found in any of our houses.”

“Ooh this is one of my favorite scenes in the whole movie, shh.” Melissa said.

It was the scene where Vizzini and Westley were trying to kill each other and settled on a logic game involving a rare Australian poison. Both Jon and Melissa watched intently and laughed as Vizzini tried to make logic of an unwinable situation. Unconsciously Melissa leaned into Jon and rested her head on his chest. Jon instinctively brought his arm down from across the back of the couch to her shoulders.

They sat there fully content in the movie for a couple of minutes, until Melissa looked at what had happened. She felt trapped in his arms, and much too close for comfort. She tried to talk herself down. Melissa, this is Jon, who has been nothing but a perfect gentleman to you all night. Mel, you’re just watching a movie. Damn it Melissa, calm down, and just breathe. As hard as she tried, she felt a familiar feeling in her chest start to tighten, and her breathing became quicker.

Jon heard Melissa breathing heavy and looked down at the woman in his arms. He saw a panicked look on her face, and fear in her eyes. “Melissa, what’s wrong? Are you ok?” Jon asked concerned at the sudden change in her demeanor.

“Yeah, I’m ok,” Melissa lied. I have to get out of here. “I just need to, umm, use the restroom. Will you excuse me for a second?” Melissa said this nearly throwing his arm off of her and jumping to her feet.

“Are you sure you’re ok?” He asked not sure to believe her.

“Absolutely, I’ll only be a minute,” she said heading for the hall.

“Do you want me to wait for you?”

“No, keep watching. I’ll only be a minute.” Melissa said and left in almost a run.

She stopped in the hall for her phone and headed straight for the bathroom. She sat on the floor, trying not to cry and clear her head. I can’t do this, I’m done. She shook her head in disgust with herself. One night Melissa, you couldn’t keep your head straight for one night? Before she knew it the phone in her hand was ringing. She had dialed without thinking; she didn’t even know what number she called.

“Mel?” The voice on the other end asked.

“God Tommy is that you?” Melissa asked in a panic.

“Yeah Melissa. You did call me. What’s the matter, are you ok?” Tommy asked hearing the level of distress in her voice.

“Tommy, I need you to come get me. Right now, Tommy. I have to get out of here.” Melissa begged, still fighting to hold back her tears.

“Melissa, you have to talk to me. What’s going on? What happened?”

Melissa could hear Angela asking questions next to him. “Tommy please, if you trust my judgment even a little, will you please come pick me up. I’m at Richie’s house. It’s white, between a blue one and a tan one. Angela has the address. I’ll be waiting.” Melissa said and hung up the phone.

She looked at herself in the mirror, and wiped away a stray tear. “Hold it together just a little longer Melissa.”

She came out of the bathroom and stopped in the kitchen for a glass of water. Anything to calm her down at the moment. She took her glass and walked slowly back to the living room where Jon was waiting. She dropped her phone in her purse, and was surprised to see Jon in the hallway.

“I told you that you didn’t have to wait.” Melissa said. “Come on let’s get back.”

“I just came to see if you were ok. You were gone a little while.” Jon said, seeing the look of hurt and shame in her eyes.

“Oh I’m fine. I just needed something to drink. Back to Buttercup and Westley?” Melissa said and walked towards the living room.

“Sure.” He followed her back into the living room and resumed his same spot on the couch. Melissa however sat a foot or so away from him on the edge of the cushion. He pressed play, and watched her nervously sip her water.

After a minute or so, Jon heard the doorbell ring. Melissa jumped off the couch and headed for the foyer. “That must be Tommy. He worries when I’m out late,” she lied.

Jon followed her to the foyer and watched her put on her shoes and grab her purse. He saw tears start to flow down her cheeks. “Thank you for a wonderful evening.” Melissa said as she tried to force a smile and opened the door. As she hoped Tommy was on the other side waiting. She walked right past him to the car and waited by the car door.

Jon stood at the door in disbelief of what was happening. Tommy said a quick goodnight before heading down the walk to his car. What the hell just happened? Jon thought, How did everything go from perfect to disaster in less than 10 minutes? He walked in a confused daze to the kitchen where he found a bottle of wine in the refrigerator and poured himself a glass.

Tommy walked towards Melissa. “Tommy I’m so sorry to ruin your evening, I just-” She couldn’t get out any more words between sobs. She was shivering in the wind, and shaking from crying. He walked towards her and she collapsed in his arms. “Can you just take me home, I don’t wanna talk about it.”

“Mel, can you tell me what happened?” Tommy asked rubbing her back to calm her down.

“Please just take me home,” Melissa said. Tommy walked her to the passenger door and she sat inside in a daze. Tommy got in the driver seat and started the car. As if on cue Bon Jovi came out on the speakers. Melissa couldn’t make out what song it was, all she knew was that it was icing on the cake. She reached over and turned the radio off so the could drive in silence. Tommy pulled the car out of the driveway and as they turned out a car turned in behind them. Melissa didn’t care that it was probably Richie Sambora; all she wanted was to go home, get in bed and pray that this was all a nightmare.